UTEP loses to Oklahoma in Old Spice Classic

Romero Osby had 16 points and 10 rebounds as Oklahoma nearly blew a 20-point lead in a 68-61 victory over Texas-El Paso in the opening round of the Old Spice Classic on Thursday night.

Steven Pledger added 12 points, including a key late 3-pointer, for Oklahoma (3-0).

Texas-El Paso (1-2) got 12 points from Chris Washburn. Julian Washburn and Jacques Streeter both had 11.

Oklahoma went up 52-32 when Isaiah Cousins connected on a 3-pointer. UTEP battled back, getting within 64-58 with just over three minutes to play on Streeter’s 3-pointer and two free throws by Washburn.

C.J. Cooper connected on two more free throws that cut the deficit to 64-60 with 1:44 to play.

Pledger then made a long-range jumper with 63 seconds remaining to put Oklahoma up 67-60 and seal the win.